This North Dakota Caterpillar Will Ruin Your Day If You Touch It

The spring and summer months bring out all the bugs, and for the most part, we know which ones to avoid.

That said, there are some insects in North Dakota that seem harmless but are actually quite dangerous.

While many North Dakotans grew up petting and playing with caterpillars, there's a certain species that you don't want to let crawl around on your hands.

Hickory Tussock Moth Caterpillars have been found around North Dakota, and they are ones you want to stay away from. While they most commonly appear during the fall months, they can be found year-round.

According to Penn State Extension, these caterpillars are white with black spots. They can grow up to 1.7 inches. Despite their cute appearance, you don't want to play around with them.

The source says they use their hairs for defense -- the hairs are barbed, easily detach, and can become embedded in the eyes or skin.

Young children who like to spend a lot of time playing outside might accidentally handle, squash, or ingest these creatures.

The source says, this typically results in an itchy rash. If ingested, it could cause drooling, irritability, anorexia, and allergic reactions.

It's unlikely you will have any serious reaction after contact with these caterpillars, but it certainly could throw a wrench in your day.

Keep your eyes open for them, and steer clear if you see them.

Now that we've learned about this species of caterpillar/moth, let's take a look at some of North Dakota's endangered species that need our help protecting.